Adobe has been the premier provider of all things web and graphic design for quite some time. But their expertise had them firmly in software, with only rumors of prototypes existing that would indicate a move into hardware. Now we have confirmation that they have created their own stylus and digital ruler for purchasing.

The Project Mighty stylus and the Napoleon ruler are exciting additions to the Adobe line. As a three sided, cover protected stylus, the Mighty in particular is turning heads and has been since it was first revealed at Adobe Max 2013 a few months ago. The shape was a surprise, but according to Geoff Dowd, it was meant to mimic early pencils.

Another interesting feature is that the protective case will feature a USB cord. So you can safely charge it from anywhere with an available port.

Next, we have the Napoleon. This is a much more interesting device, as it brings something really innovative to the table. It is described by Adobe as a digital ruler, but that isn’t accurate at all. It is more like a digital shape projector, or even a stencil.

It works by letting you place the three inch device onto your tablet in the area where you want the line or shape. You then toggle through to find your chosen line or shape and it creates it for you on the screen. You can download custom libraries and content to use.

There is no word on an actual release date. But we do know that these puppies go on sale in the first half of 2014, giving us at least a general idea of when to expect them on the market.

Both devices seem to point to a major change in the function and direction of Adobe as a brand. Michael Gough spoke to reporters about why they had taken on the wider Project Parallel that eventually led to these new products.

“We want to start building the tools for this next generation of creatives, which is frigging everybody today.”

I think they succeeded. Already, I know a couple of designers who are foaming at the mouth to get at these and try them out. Though we have no idea how much either will cost, and so how feasible they will be as tools for the average designer. Adobe isn’t exactly known for being cheap, as anyone with a full version of Photoshop will be the first to point out.